Crashing surf. Jagged rocks. Windswept cedars. Dramatic ocean sunsets. No wonder the Monterey Bay and Big Sur areas are so popular. Give yourself plenty of time to hike or bike along the shore or beneath towering redwoods, browse elegant galleries, and sample first rate food and wine. Hard to believe that an hour's drive from the intensely urban areas of New York City and Philadelphia are the peaceful rural charms of New Jersey's Hunterdon County and Pennsylvania's Bucks County, just across the Delaware River.

I'm tired of Chicago's big convention hotels. Aren't there any appealing B&Bs or interesting small hotels? B&Bs apparently fall into a gray area in terms of Chicago zoning, and many innkeepers follow a "don't ask, don't tell" policy, keeping a low profile, often booking rooms through reservation services. We didn't see any inn signs, so keep a note of the exact street address. Some follow a homestay approach, and don't do a daily tidying or bed-making, so be sure to ask for details. The Flemish House of Chicago has a great Gold Coast location. This 1890s row house is set on a lovely residential street; its three suites combine period charm with an English Arts & Crafts motif. Our favorite was #1R, quiet, bright, and sunny, with a queen-size canopy bed and sitting area overlooking the back garden below. Two miles north of the city center is the lively Lincoln Park neighborhood and the Windy City B&B Inn, a handsome 1886 Victorian home. Five guest rooms are located in the 7000-square-foot main house, with three apartment suites in the Carriage House; all are named for Chicago authors. More inns… We were also impressed by several small hotels of character, including Hotel Burnham, the Hotel Monaco, and the Whitehall. Make time to tour the city's marvelous museums, and to enjoy its excellent restaurants and theater. Be sure to contact the Chicago Architecture Foundation for information on their fascinating boat, bus, and walking tours. More Chicago info…. Find a B&B | Specials | Recipes | Message Boards | Gift Certificates | Store | Book Online